King David: Unveiling the Magnificent Leader of Israel

The History of King David

King David was meant to be stillborn and live only three hours, but Adam, recognizing his eternal potential, asked Hashem to grant David life by giving him 70 years from his own life.

David's father, Jesse, was one of the few who never sinned. His mother, Nitzevet bat Adael, was a great righteous woman. According to "Pachad Yitzchak", repeating her name 17 times is auspicious for prayers to be heard.

David's father was descended from Ruth the Moabitess, sparking doubts about David's place in the community. For decades, his brothers ostracized him, suspecting he was illegitimate.

The Prophet Samuel came to Jesse's house to anoint a new king from among Jesse's sons, as commanded by Hashem, but without knowing which son it would be.

Samuel initially thought Eliab, Jesse's impressive eldest, was chosen by Hashem, but Hashem told him not to judge by appearance, as the Lord looks at the heart. Eliab was passed over for his temper and jealousy, unsuitable traits for leadership.

As Jesse's sons passed before Samuel, the oil meant to anoint the king refused to pour. Finally, they summoned David, who was tending sheep. Although Samuel feared his ruddy appearance suggested violence, Hashem confirmed David's choice, and the oil flowed, crowning David.

The Noble Traits of King David

Humility

David's greatness stemmed from his humility. The Zohar teaches that those who humble themselves before Hashem are exalted, and David always recognized Hashem's guidance in life.

The Divine Spirit

From the moment David was anointed, he was endowed with the spirit of prophecy, enabling him to compose the Psalms. From that day, David ascended in spirit as Saul fell.

King David

David was chosen despite his appearance, which some feared hinted at violence, as a testament to Hashem's hidden plans for David and his lineage, emphasizing character over looks.

Gentle Yet Strong

Called "Gentle Yet Strong", David balanced fierceness in battle with softness in study, embodying dual strengths.

Devotion and Humility

David's devotion extended to shepherding, leading Hashem to deem him fit to shepherd His people. Humility is likened to offering all sacrifices, as "a broken spirit" is valued above all.

King David's Psalms

In the Talmud, David aspired for his words to forever stir lips in prayer, believing this would keep him spiritually alive, a wish fulfilled in Psalms' eternal use.

While reciting Psalms, David's spirit is believed to awaken, advocating for those reciting them.

King David (Photo: shutterstock)

The Zohar states that spoken Torah words echo timelessly, joining past righteous voices, keeping their spirit alive.

David lives on through Psalms, interwoven with Jewish life from synagogues to homes, binding daily prayers and rituals across time.

The Passing of King David

The Talmud recounts how David, informed by Hashem of his Saturday passing, immersed himself in Torah study, deflecting the Angel of Death. On that fateful Shabbat and Shavuot, a distraction led to his fall and peaceful passing.

Scholars note that David was born and died on Shavuot, reinforcing his life as a testament and service of Torah.

According to King David, repentance not only cleanses but revives the heart. Don't miss Rabbi Zamir Cohen's moving insights:

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